One Command Line: Create and Open Directories with Ease

Managing directories efficiently is crucial for productivity when working in a command-line environment. In this blog post, we will explore a handy ZSH command that simplifies the process of creating directories and navigating between them. By combining a few simple commands, we can streamline directory operations and save valuable time.

mkdir DIR_NAME

ls

    DIR_1 DIR_2 DIR_3 DIR_NAME
  

cd DIR_NAME

• This is what I used to do

mkdir DIR_NAME && cd $_

• Simplified command line

The Command

Let’s break down each component of the command mkdir DIR_NAME && cd $_

1. mkdir DIR_NAME: Creates a directory named DIR_NAME in the current location.

2. &&: A logical operator ensuring the second command runs only if the first command succeeds.

3. cd $_: Changes the current directory to the one specified by $_, which represents the last argument of the previous command.

Simplifying Directory Creation

The command offers several benefits for creating directories in a single step:

• Efficiency: By combining the directory creation and navigation steps, you eliminate the need for separate commands, saving time and effort.

• Convenience: You can create a directory and immediately switch to it in one swift action, avoiding the extra step of manually navigating to the directory.

Streamlining Directory Navigation

The command not only simplifies directory creation but also improves navigation between newly created directories:

• Automatic Switching: After creating a directory, the command automatically switches the current directory to the newly created one, eliminating the need for a separate navigation command.

• Efficient Workflow: By seamlessly transitioning to the newly created directory, you can continue working without interruption, enhancing your productivity.

Customizing the Command

The command is flexible and can be customized to suit your preferences and workflows:

• Additional ZSH Features: You can incorporate additional features of ZSH or command options to enhance the command further. Explore ZSH documentation to discover more possibilities.

• Personalization: Customize the command based on your preferred naming conventions, directory structures, or additional actions you want to perform after creating a directory.

Conclusion

With the mkdir DIR_NAME && cd $_ command, we can simplify directory creation and navigation, boosting productivity in command-line environments. By combining these simple steps into a single command, we reduce manual effort and streamline our workflow. Whether for creating multiple directories or quickly accessing newly created ones, this command proves to be a valuable tool in our development toolkit.